Subject: Finn's home brewed EFIS
From: ACRE NL
Date: 2/6/2002, 1:15 PM


In reference to a simple, inexpensive engine monitor that doesn't take up
much panel space.
My home brewed unit uses old technology I had lying around: 80C85 CPU and
AD815 16 channel MUX - 8 Bit AD. The display is the same you gave to
Tracy: monochrome 20 chars * 4 lines with LED back light and very
sun-light readable. Parts cost of monitor is  probably less than $75
without sensors.

All sensors I use have 0 - 5 volt linear radiometric outputs. About $20
for pressure sensors and $1 for temp sensors. EGT sensors are from $25 to
$ 40.

I thought of making a unit and offer it for sale but then you get
requests like: well, I'd really want 10 bits, etc. etc.

Finn

That is a fact of life when doing business Finn. Customers always
want what you don't have. Heck I want a 2.85:1 PSRU from Tracy.
You must make a decision to balance requested improvements and new features
with the cost of new developments and still stay in business. Not something
that can be taught in business school.

Dump the 80C85 and go with a PIC. Far more modern, up to date and evolving
technology (10 bits etc., etc.) There is a growing market for this stuff.
This newsletter is a golden opportunity for anyone that wants to market
stuff for the rotary. We are very focused and I will help anyway
I can.

Paul Lamar

Finn, I would like to know more about the sensors you are using.  The
temp. and pressure sensors in particular.  Low pressure sensors like for
the cooling system pressure seem hard to find.  I sure would like to
find a sensor that can read airspeed and altitude -- as backup gauges to
the regular gauges.

Rino


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